Kiddos are almost out of school for summer and hopefully some fun travel plans are your in your future, too.
While I don’t consider the month of May the ideal time for decluttering (I’m looking at you end of school year field trips, talent shows, awards, recitals, concerts, spring sports wrap-up), it IS helpful to check a few things off the list before you jump into full-on summer mode.
CALENDAR
Get dates on the calendar now and future you will be so grateful. I did NOT want to do this task, but with swim team starting this week, I’m already so glad I did. As we inevitably add more adventures to the summer schedule, knowing what’s locked in helps so much (vacations, camps, swim team). Schedule an hour on your calendar to tackle this.
Also, talk with your family about what’s on their summer wish list. Seeing a particular movie or going on a specific day trip, maybe? Perhaps making some spending money? Having a summer list will help you be intentional with days that are open. Personally, I keep a “Summer” note in the notes app on my phone.
FOOD
Take a look through your pantry + fridge and make sure you are ready for kids being home more (along with their friends!).
Stock the freezer with popsicles, ice cream and easy dinners (burritos, nuggets)
Incorporate a grab-n-go snack basket for the pool, park, and picnics. Granola bars, chips/pretzels, dried fruit, crackers, trail mix, and nuts!
I also like to have plenty of baking ingredients and toppings on hand for the kids to enjoy a screen-free activity alone or with friends + Lemonade mix for your tiny entrepreneurs neighborhood lemonade stands too.
Don’t forget S’Mores fixins’ for night time fire pits.
We are a swim team family, so I purchase a case of gatorade + variety of candy at the start of the season for them to make “Swim Fast” goodie bags for their swim buddies all season. Shop once and done.
LUGGAGE + sUMMER NEEDS
If you’re traveling, check that your travel bags are ready to roll. Suitcases, carry-ons, overnight bags, beach bags, and toiletries cases.
Don’t forget about your toiletries too. I like to keep mine pre-packed so I just have to reset my case before a trip.
Are you stocked on bug spray and sunscreen?
Everyone have hats + sunglasses available?
Create a packing checklist so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel every time.
Want to attempt packing light? You can read some of my recs here.
FOR THE BORED KIDDOS
When my kids were little and I was a full-time stay at home mom, a Summer Bucket List helped us get out of the house and be intentional. Now that my kids are older, they have more flexibility and connect more with friends in the neighborhood on their own. BUT, having some ideas for them when the inevitable “I’m bored” comes out gives them ample opportunities to reset.
Simple daily rhythm - chores, exercise, reading before screens
Summer Reading - have the kids set a goal and come up with a list of titles to check out at the library. Start them off with one new book for the summer.
Chores - in addition to daily chores, adding to those life skills is a great way to spend summer days. Teach them to do their own laundry or mow the lawn. (both of these are on my list this summer). Having a “folding clothes” workshop (great even for young kiddos), or give them a decluttering challenge that ends with a Yard Sale.
Create a kids cooking or baking calendar - ideas for recipes for the kids to test out, or even have a little friendly competition.
Movie Night Dinner - The pandemic kicked off this tradition. Each kid is in charge of coming up with a themed dinner and dessert alongside the movie of their choice. They can have help, but once we get a date on the calendar, they come up with a menu + grocery list and then execute their vision.